Philippines, Italy sign defense cooperation agreement to enhance relations

The Philippines and Italy signed a renewed defense cooperation agreement to advance relations, according to the Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday.

In a statement, the DND said Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro signed the said agreement with Italian Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 14.

“The signing of the renewed Agreement between the Philippines and Italy on Cooperation in the Field of Defense is a concrete step towards strengthening bilateral defense relations and advancing practical cooperation,” the DND said.

“Our efforts reflect a shared commitment to long-term capability development and greater interoperability, anchored on mutual respect and strategic trust,” it added.

According to the DND, the department values Italy’s expanding engagement in the Indo-Pacific and looks forward to sustained cooperation that “strengthens maritime security, promotes global stability, and advances mutual interests.” –NB, GMA Integrated News